Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool went into the final stretch of the window chasing a defender who fits a very specific profile.
The 25 year old who already has years of top-level experience, came through a major Dutch academy, made his senior debut as a teenager, and grew into a reliable first-team option across several seasons.
What stands out is his versatility.
He is mainly a right-back, but he has also played centre-back and even defensive midfield.
That kind of “plug-in-anywhere” defender is exactly the type Liverpool look for when injuries hit and the schedule gets heavy.
This season, his numbers show he has not been a passenger.
He has made 17 league appearances, including 10 starts, with 972 minutes played. He also has a clean discipline record with no yellow or red cards.
For a defender, that matters. It suggests control and good decision-making.
Liverpool’s interest made sense. The squad has been stretched at full-back, and there has been a clear need for cover and flexibility.
A short-term solution that also offers long-term value is usually the ideal outcome. And when a player already knows the demands of big games, that lowers the risk.
But transfers are not only about profile.
They are about timing, leverage, and whether all parties align when talks get serious.
Now it is off.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool will not be getting Lutsharel Geertruida, and that Sunderland have moved on from the discussions.
Romano wrote on X, ” Lutsharel Geertruida-Liverpool deal considered OFF by Sunderland after talks not advancing today.”
“Discussions took place over last 24h but no agreement at this stage and #SAFC not planning to proceed.”
From a Liverpool point of view, it is a setback because this was a direct attempt to solve a problem quickly.
Geertruida is at Sunderland on loan from RB Leipzig, so any move required multiple layers of agreement. This time, the talks did not move far enough.
Liverpool now have to pivot again, with the deadline pressure still on and defensive cover still needed.
🚨🛑 Lutsharel Geertruida-Liverpool deal considered OFF by Sunderland after talks not advancing today.
Discussions took place over last 24h but no agreement at this stage and #SAFC not planning to proceed. pic.twitter.com/S6uAA41Szs
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 1, 2026
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